Sliding-Panel Closure Lock With Direct Rod Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing operating means for side locking devices in glass curtain enclosures are prone to wear and tear, leading to functional failures, and the rack and gear mechanisms often fail to fit properly, causing operational issues.
Innovation Solution
The operating means consist of a shaft, an elongated element, and a flat part with coupling means, designed to transform rotational movement into linear and lateral movements, using galvanized steel components to ensure durability and precise alignment within the locking device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a rack and gear mechanism is used to transmit movement from the handle to the rods, then the operating means can achieve the required motion transmission, but the parts wear out easily and the gear slips on the rack, causing functional failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the rack and gear mechanism with a direct mechanical coupling system where the handle is connected to the rods through a series of coupled rods and connection elements. This eliminates the gear teeth and rack interface that were prone to wear and slipping, providing a more reliable transmission mechanism that maintains function over time.
2Ease of manufacture
If tolerances in the rack and gear mechanism are generous to facilitate manufacturing, then manufacturing is easier, but the parts do not fit well and cause operating problems
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism is divided into multiple separate rod elements that are coupled together through connection elements. Each rod and connection element can be manufactured independently with standard tolerances, and they assemble together to form the complete motion transmission path. This segmentation allows easier manufacturing while maintaining proper fit through the coupling design.
3Device complexity
If a fixed door panel configuration is used, then the system structure is simpler, but it requires an arm at the top which is unsightly and less airtight, and does not create a watertight joint
Solution Approach 1:
The door panel is designed with movable components including the operating means that can shift positions. The profile with operating means can move horizontally along the rod, and the entire door assembly can pivot at the bottom hinge. This dynamic design allows the door to achieve proper sealing positions when closed while maintaining structural simplicity, eliminating the need for a fixed top arm.
Data Source
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Figure 3A~4D
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AI summary
Operating means for a locking device, comprising: an actuator operable between at least two positions; an elongated element comprising a first coupling means and two other coupling means positioned one on each side of the first coupling means; and a part comprising a first hole, configured for accommodating the shaft of the actuator, the part further comprising a coupling means configured to couple to the first coupling means of the elongated element, the part is configured to rotate around the first hole. And a locking device for a door panel of an enclosure system with sliding panels, the blocking/locking device comprising: a first profile, movable between a locked position and an unlocked position; a second profile positioned relative to the first profile so that in the unlocked position, the first profile is at least partially housed within the second profile; operating means connected to the second profile with the first profile mechanically coupled to the operating means.